Top 3 Signs You Need Brake Service

Being able to slow down and stop your car on the road is not an option. Your brakes are essential to the safety of you and others, so it's important that you take care of them to keep them working properly. Here's a closer look at how brakes work and the signs that they need service.

How do brakes work?

While you may not think about brakes, they play an amazing role in the driving process. Your brakes control a large, heavy vehicle moving at high speed until slowing down or coming to a complete stop in a short amount of time and with little pressure from your foot. To understand brake problems, it is important to first understand how your braking system works. 

When you step on the brake pedal, the master cylinder releases hydraulic fluid (often referred to simply as brake fluid) into the calipers (or wheel cylinders). Hydraulic fluid increases the pressure on your foot, giving you the ability to slow down and stop your car. Your brake system is also designed to use leverage to increase this pressure. 

This forces the brake calipers to lower the brake pads to the rotors (or discs) where they apply the pressure needed to stop. The friction material on your brake pads absorbs the heat and pressure of this exchange to slow moving rotors safely. Every time you brake, a small amount of this friction material wears out, so your brake pads need to be replaced regularly. 

Each of these systems is held together by several small pieces, and each of them must work properly in order for your brakes to work properly. So how do you know it's time for brake service? Here are three main signs.

Noisy brakes - why do my brakes squeak?

When your brakes start making a squeaky, grinding or metallic sound, it means they have worn through the friction material on your brake pads and are now rubbing directly against your rotors. This can damage and bend your rotors, resulting in steering wheel shaking, inefficient stopping and creaky braking. Replacing both your brake pads and rotors is much more expensive than replacing just your brake pads, so it's important to get this service done before it can cause any damage. 

Slow or inefficient braking

If you notice that your car is not as efficient at slowing down or stopping as it used to be, this is a key sign that you need a brake repair. The time it takes for your vehicle to slow down or stop may depend on the condition of your tires, the size of your vehicle, road conditions, the pressure you apply, the condition of your brakes, and more. but National Association of Urban Transportation Officials reports that the average car is built to come to a complete stop within 120 to 140 feet while traveling at 60 mph. If you notice that it takes a long time or distance to come to a complete stop, you may need new brake pads, brake fluid, or another type of brake service. Without proper maintenance, you will leave yourself exposed to accidents and safety hazards. 

Brake warning light

When the brake system warning light comes on, this is a clear sign that you may need service. Your brake light can be scheduled for regular notifications or actively monitoring and reporting health issues with your brakes. However, if your vehicle measures required brake maintenance by mileage, it may not be accurate. If you drive long distances with minimal stops, your brakes will wear out less than a driver in a city where traffic jams and traffic lights cause frequent and heavy stops. If you rely heavily on your brakes, keep an eye on them for wear as you may need service before your warning system gives you a warning. Here is our complete understanding guide When to Replace Brake Pads.

Popular Brake Services

While you might assume that a braking problem is a sign that your brake pads need to be replaced, your braking system is a little more complicated. Several different parts and systems work together to slow and stop your vehicle safely. Look at the general brake services that you may need to resolve braking issues. 

Replacing the front brake pads

Your front brake pads are often the hardest hit in your braking system, which means they require frequent maintenance. 

Replacing the rear brake pads

Depending on the type of vehicle you have, rear brake pads often don't work as hard as front brake pads; however, they are still important to your vehicle and need to be replaced regularly.

Flushing the brake fluid 

Hydraulic fluid is essential for your vehicle to stop. If your brake fluid is worn or depleted, you may need to brake fluid flush. 

Replacing the rotor 

If you have a damaged or bent rotor, it will need to be replaced so your brakes can bring the car to a safe stop. 

Replacement of brake parts or other services

When even a small part in your braking system becomes damaged, lost, or ineffective, it needs to be repaired or replaced. Although these services are less frequently required, you may experience problems with the master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and more. 

To find out why your brakes aren't working or what service is needed, see a professional. 

Tire Repair at Chapel Hill

If you need brake pad replacement, brake fluid or any other brake service in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Carrborough or Durham, call Chapel Hill Tire. Unlike other mechanics, we offer brake service coupons and transparent prices. Our experts will deliver you, take you out and send you on your way in the shortest possible time. to make an appointment here online to start Chapel Hill Tire Brake Service today!

Back to resources